Systems and methods for providing service migration between first and second cellular technologies

ABSTRACT

Systems and methods for a call flow for a mobile directory number (MDN) from a first phone to a second phone which has been intra-service ported. The system includes: a first switch of a first technology; a second switch of a second technology; and a local number portability database (LNP). The LNP stores local routing numbers (LRN) associated with the MDN. The WLNP system determines whether a call, from the first phone, is received by a public switched telephone network (PSTN) or the first switch. If the call is received by the PSTN with the LRN, the call is routed to the second switch based on the LRN. If the call is received by the first switch without the LRN, the first switch queries the LNP for the LRN and the call is routed intra-carrier to the second switch.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Non-Provisional Application which claims thebenefit of the filing dates of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. Nos.60/492,082 filed Aug. 1, 2003 and 60/540,995 filed Feb. 2, 2004, bothentitled “Systems and Methods for Providing Service Migration BetweenFirst and Second Cellular Technologies,” the entirety of which isincorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates in general to migrating subscribersbetween first and second cellular technologies, and in particular, tousing an inter-machine trunk (IMT) to support service migration within acarrier's own systems with wireless local number portability (WLNP)functionality.

2. Description of the Related Art

In the past, a carrier did not own, or operate on, more than onecellular technology, for example, both time division multiple access(TDMA) technology and the global system for mobile communications (GSM)technology. So there was no need to traffic a message from a firsttechnology to a second technology. Service migration is defined as theability for the carrier to deprovision a subscriber from one technologyand provision the subscriber on the second technology while allowing thesubscriber to keep their same phone number. Currently, numerous carriersare moving their services from a first technology to a second moreadvanced cellular technology.

The FCC mandate of WLNP for wireless system has recently been enacted tosupport subscribers in changing carriers. That is, systems must be putin place that allow for local number portability such that a subscribercan take their mobile directory number (MDN) if they decide to move fromone cellular/PCS carrier to a new cellular/PCS carrier.

However, the problem faced by carriers was determining how to supportthe migration of mobile directory numbers (MDN's) from one technology toa second technology, for example from TDMA to GSM, without requiring thesubscriber to obtain a new MDN.

In the past, the solution was to use a form of sequential validation.Conventionally, validation was performed first for one technology, andif the validation yielded a false response, then the validation isredirected to the second technology. This solution provided a form ofvalidation which required the additional use of machine trunks. Inaddition, this solution also did not take into consideration the use ofWLNP functionality.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to the systems and methods of this invention, WLNPfunctionality has been further developed to solve the problemsassociated with migrating subscribers within a carrier from onetechnology to another.

The present invention addresses the shortcomings identified above byproviding systems and methods for using inter-machine trunks (IMT) tosupport service migration with WLNP functionality.

An object of this invention is to migrate subscribers from a firsttechnology to a second technology, such as between TDMA and GSM, usingthe industry porting process defined for supporting number pooling andwireless number portability (WLNP).

Another object of this invention is to implement the use of IMT's tohandle certain mobile type calls to support the service migration withWLNP functionality. This arrangement contains many benefits and is costeffective. The use of the inter-machine trunks (IMT) is applicable forvarious markets. For example, where a global system for mobilecommunications mobile switching center (GSM MSC) and a time divisionmultiple access mobile switching center (TDMA MSC) are co-located,trouble shooting and maintenance of the GSM MSC and the TDMA MSC iseasier and more efficient.

The systems and methods of this invention provide numerous advantages.For example, considerable cost saving can be realized for markets wherea GSM MSC and a TDMA MSC reside in the same location, and where directswitch-to-switch connectivity can be established without involvementfrom the local exchange carrier (LEC). There is also no need foradditional facilities to the public switched telephone network(PSTN)/LEC, for example, in those markets where the LEC will not be ableto provide facilities due to capacity issues. A single carrier cansolely manage call flow capacity between the GSM and TDMA technologies.

One aspect of the invention is to provide a wireless number portability(WLNP) system for migrating a call flow for a mobile directory number(MDN) from a first phone to a second phone which has been intra-serviceported. The WLNP system includes a first switch of a first technology; asecond switch of a second technology; and a local number portabilitydatabase (LNP) that stores local routing numbers (LRN) associated withthe MDN. The WLNP system determines whether a call, from the first phoneto the second phone, is received by a public switched telephone network(PSTN) or the first switch. If the call is received by the PSTN with theLRN, the call is routed based on the LRN to the second switch. If thecall is received by the first switch without the LRN, the first switchqueries the LNP for the LRN and the call is routed intra-carrier to thesecond switch.

Another aspect of the invention is to provide a method for migrating acall from a first phone to a second phone where a subscriber's mobiledirectory number (MDN) has been intra-service ported from a first switchof a first technology to a second switch of a second technology. Themethod includes creating a profile in a local number portabilitydatabase (LNP) based on the intra-service ported MDN; determining howthe call is received and routing the call accordingly. First, the methoddetermines whether the call is received by a public switched telephonenetwork (PSTN) or the first switch. If the call is received by the PSTNwith the LRN, then the call is routed based on the LRN to the secondswitch. Otherwise, if the call is received by the first switch withoutthe LRN, the LNP is queried for the LRN by the first switch, and thecall is routed intra-carrier to the second switch.

In accordance with another aspect of this invention, a wireless numberportability (WLNP) system is provided that includes: a first PSTNconnection, a first switch of a first technology; and a second switch ofa second technology in communication with the PSTN connection, the firstswitch, and the local number portability database (LNP). The WLNP systemmigrates a call flow from a first phone to a second phone where a mobiledirectory number (MDN) has been intra-service ported from the firstswitch to the second switch. The local number portability database (LNP)stores local routing numbers (LRN) associated with the MDN that has beenintra-service ported. The WLNP system determines whether a call, fromthe first phone is received by the public switched telephone network(PSTN) or the first switch. If the call is received by the PSTN with theLRN from the LNP, the PSTN routes the call based on the LRN to thesecond switch. If the call is received without the LRN from the LNP, thefirst switch queries the LNP to obtain the LRN, and then routes the callon an inter-machine trunk (IMT) to the second switch.

The first switch routes the call on an inter-machine trunk (IMT) to thesecond destination switch of the second technology.

It is yet another aspect according to the method described above, thefirst technology can be chosen from at least one of TDMA, GSM, CDMA,UMTS, GPRS and PBX.

In accordance with the method described above, the second technology isdifferent from the first technology and can be chosen from at least oneof TDMA, GSM, CDMA, UMTS, GPRS and PBX.

These and other objects, features, and/or advantages may accrue fromvarious aspects of embodiments of the present invention, as described inmore detail below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various exemplary embodiments of this invention will be described indetail, wherein like reference numerals refer to identical or similarcomponents or steps, with reference to the following figures, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of a WLNP migration system inaccordance with systems and methods of this invention.

FIG. 2 shows an exemplary method for migrating a call flow from anoriginator phone to a destination phone subscriber between a firsttechnology and a second technology via a wireless local numberportability (WLNP) migration system.

FIG. 3 shows a call being placed from a TDMA mobile to a GSM mobile (newcustomer).

FIG. 4 illustrates a call being placed from a GSM mobile to a TDMAmobile.

FIG. 5 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a call being placedfrom the GSM mobile to a TDMA mobile.

FIG. 6 shows a call being made from a land line phone to a GSM mobile(new customer).

FIG. 7 shows a call being made from a land line phone to a GSM mobile(new customer).

FIG. 8 shows a call being made from a TDMA mobile to a roaming GSMmobile (new customer).

FIG. 9 shows a call being made from a TDMA mobile to a GSM mobile (newcustomer).

FIG. 10 shows a call being made from a TDMA mobile to a GSM mobile(ported from TDMA).

FIG. 11 shows a call being made from a GSM Mobile to a GSM Mobile(Ported from TDMA) and directed to the LNP DB.

FIG. 12 shows a call being made from a GSM Mobile to a GSM Mobile(Ported from TDMA) and directed to the TDMA MSC via the IMT.

FIG. 13 illustrates a call being made from a GSM mobile to a TDMAmobile.

FIG. 14 illustrates a call being made from a TDMA mobile to a GSM GAITmobile (GSM GAIT is homed in the TDMA HLR).

FIG. 15 illustrates a call being made from a GSM mobile to a GSM GAITmobile (GSM GAIT mobile is homed in the TDMA HLR).

FIG. 16 illustrates a call being made from a land line phone to a GSMGAIT mobile (GSM mobile is homed in the TDMA HLR).

FIG. 17 illustrates a call being made from a mobile to a land line notserved by the serving MSC.

FIG. 18 illustrates a call being made from a mobile served by an MSC Ato a mobile number that has a VLR in an MSC B, or an IHLR in the MSC B.

FIG. 19 illustrates a mobile with an IHLR in the MSC B.

FIG. 20 is a functional block diagram of the WLNP migration system inaccordance with systems and methods of this invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Particular embodiments of the present invention will now be described ingreater detail with reference to the figures.

Conventionally, carriers generally operated on a single technologynetwork. Accordingly, there was no need to migrate numbers between twotechnology network systems intra-carrier. However, currently, carriersmay operate on more than one technology network. Thus, there is a needto facilitate the migration of a number from a first technology networksystem to a second technology network system.

FIG. 20 is an exemplary illustration of a WLNP migration system 100 thatprovides migration of subscribers from a first technology network systemto a second technology network system intra-carrier in accordance withsystems and methods of this invention. In particular, the WLNP migrationsystem 100 routes a call flow placed from an originating phone 7 (forexample, by a landline phone or a cellular device) to a destinationphone (such as a destination phone 20 subscribing to a first technologynetwork system or a destination phone 10 subscribing to a secondtechnology network system).

FIG. 20 shows a carrier 40 including a first technology network system46 and a second technology network system 47. The carrier 40 may routethe call flow internally through any one, or both, of the two differenttechnology network systems 46, 47, and then out to the destination phone10, 20 via communication towers.

The first or second technology network systems 46, 47 may be chosen fromany suitable technology network system, such as for example, at leastone of TDMA, GSM, CDMA, UMTS, GPRS, PBX or any other technology networksystem now known or later developed. Those skilled in the art willappreciate that the present invention can be implemented in variousother wireless and radio frequency data transmission systems, includingnetworks utilizing EDGE, TDMA, FDMA, WCDMA, OFDM, and similarcommunications protocols.

The WLNP migration system 100 illustrates a public switched telephonenetwork (PSTN) 1, or local exchange carrier (LEC). The PSTN 1 refers tothe entire interconnected collection of local, long distance andinternational phone companies.

The PSTN 1 communicates with the local number portability database (LNPDB) 6, the MSC 25 of the first technology network system within thecarrier, and the MSC 45 of the second technology network system withinthe carrier.

The LNP DB 6 communicates and exchanges information with the PSTN/LEC 1,the MSC 25 and the MSC 45. The LNP DB 6 is a database that keeps trackof subscriber profile information, such as network addresses for eachmobile directory number (MDN), whether an MDN has been ported from onelocation to another location (such as from a first technology networksystem first technology network system 46 to a second technology networksystem 47), or to another carrier or operator.

The first technology network system 46 may include an MSC 25 and an HLR35. The second technology network system 47 may also include an MSC 45and an HLR 55. The MSC 25 of the first technology network system 46 maybe connected to the MSC 45 of the second technology network system 47via an inter-machine trunk (IMT) 11.

The inter-machine trunk (IMT) 11 is a communication line providedbetween the MSC 25 of the first technology network system firsttechnology network system 46, and the MSC 45 of the second technologynetwork system 47. The IMT 11 includes data translation which allows forthe translation of data back and forth between the MSC 25 of the firsttechnology network system 46 and the MSC 45 of the second technologynetwork system 47 so that the WLNP migration system 100 can support bothtechnologies.

In operation, the following process occurs in accordance with systemsand methods of this invention. When an incoming call from an originatingphone 7 is received for a designation phone 10, 20, either, the PSTN/LEC1, or the MSC 25 of the first technology network system 46 may receivethe call flow.

If the PSTN 1 receives the incoming call, the PSTN 1 may query the LNPDB 6 to determine whether the call (or MDN) is to be routed to thedestination phone (20) belongs to the first technology network system46, or whether the call is to be routed to the destination phone (10)which has been ported to the second technology network system 47.

Conventionally, the PSTN 1 always routed the call by default to the MSC25 of a first technology network system 46. However, according tosystems and methods of this invention, the PSTN 1 may query the LNP DB 6(prior to routing the call to the MSC 25 of the first technology networksystem) to determine whether the destination phone 20 belongs to thefirst technology system 46, or whether the destination phone 10 has beenported to the second technology network system 47. In response to thequery of the LNP DB 6, the PSTN 1 may directly route the call to the MSC45 of the second technology network system 47, bypassing the MSC 25 ofthe first technology network system 46.

When the call is automatically routed to the MSC 25 of the firsttechnology network system 46, the MSC 25 queries the LNP DB 6 todetermine whether the destination phone has been ported (such asdestination phone 10) to the second technology network system 47. If thedestination phone has not been ported (such as destination phone 20)from the first technology network system 46, a return result from theLNP DB 6 informs the MSC 25 that the HLR 35 of the first technologynetwork system 46 serves the destination phone 20. The HLR 35 of thefirst technology network system 46 is then queried to verify and toretrieve the subscriber's record. If the record is located by the HLR35, the return record will return the appropriate routing information tothe MSC 35 to terminate or complete the call to the subscriber of thefirst technology network system 46. When the call terminates, thetelephony route is completed and an air interface connection isestablished. Alternatively, if the record is not located by the HLR 35,a call treatment may be performed on the call and reported to theoriginating phone 7.

If however, the HLR 35 of the first technology network system 46 cannotverify and/or locate the subscriber's record, the HLR 35 will return arecord instructing the MSC 25 to route the call to the MSC 45 of thesecond technology network system 47. The MSC 25 of the first technologynetwork system 46 will route the call to the MSC 45 of the secondtechnology network system 47 via the inter-machine trunk (IMT) 11.

When the call is received by the MSC 45 of the second technology networksystem 47, the MSC 45 queries the HLR 55 of the second technologynetwork system 47 to verify and retrieve the subscriber's record. TheHLR 55 performs functions similar to the HLR 35, such as for example,determining which account is associated with the MDN and/or whether theMDN is an active MDN. If the record is located by the HLR 55, a returnrecord may be returned including appropriate routing information to theMSC 45 to terminate or complete the call to the subscriber of the secondtechnology network system 47.

If however, the HLR 55 cannot verify and/or locate the subscriber'srecord, the HLR 55 will return a record instructing the MSC 45 to givethe call an error call treatment informing the origination phone 7 thatthe call cannot be placed. Various reasons may cause an error treatmentincluding, but limited to, there being no record of an accountassociated with the MDN, the MDN may not be active, or the like. Thecall treatment, can include, but is not limited to providing a wrongnumber message, a message that this number is not in service, and or anyother message notifying the caller that the call cannot be completed.

The originating call can be originated from various devices, including alandline phone, cell phone, a facsimile, the Internet, or any othercommunication device now known or later developed that is capable ofplacing a call.

According to systems and methods of this invention, the destinationphone 10, 20 can also be chosen from any one of various phones fromvarious technologies, including but not limited to, a GSM mobile phone,a TDMA phone, or any other device now known or later developed phonethat is capable of receiving a call.

As mentioned before, this invention overcomes the conventional problemsdescribed above by providing a wireless local number portability (WLNP)migration system that provides for the migration of subscribers from afirst technology to a second technology within a carrier, for example,from TDMA to GSM, using the industry porting process defined forsupporting number pooling and wireless number portability (WLNP). Thatis, a subscriber who migrates from, for example, TDMA to GSM is able tokeep their mobile directory number (MDN).

A subscriber profile in a local number portability database (LNP DB) iscreated. The entry is added into the LNP DB that applies an LRN of a GSMMSC switch to the MDN.

FIG. 1 is a more detailed exemplary illustration of a WLNP migrationsystem 100.

The PSTN 1 is connected along a path P1 to a time division multipleaccess mobile switching center (TDMA MSC) 2. The TDMA MSC 2 is atelecommunication switch or exchange within a cellular networkarchitecture which is capable of inter-working with location databases.The TDMA MSC 2 exchanges information along path P2 with a time divisionmultiple access home location register (TDMA HLR) 3.

The TDMA HLR 3 is a database that provides routing information formobile terminated calls and short message service. The TDMA HLR 3 isalso responsible for the maintenance of TDMA user subscriptioninformation. This information is distributed to a relevant visitorlocation register (VLR, not shown).

Although shown as a TDMA MSC 2 with a TDMA HLR 3, the TDMA MSC 2 andTDMA HLR 3 can be any type of switching device of a first technologythat is capable of routing a call, such as TDMA, GSM, CDMA, UMTS, GPRS,PBX, and any other known or later developed technology capable ofrouting a call.

The TDMA MSC 2 is shown connected to a general system for mobilecommunications mobile switching center (GSM MSC) 4 via an inter-machinetrunk (IMT) along path P3. The GSM MSC 4 is also a telecommunicationswitch or exchange within a cellular network architecture which iscapable of inter-working with location databases. The GSM MSC 4exchanges information along path P4 with a general system for mobilecommunications home location register (GSM HLR) 5.

The GSM HLR 5 is also a database that provides routing information formobile terminated calls and short message service. The GSM HLR 5 isresponsible for the maintenance of GSM user subscription information.This information is distributed to a relevant visitor location register(VLR, not shown).

Although shown as a GSM MSC 4 with a GSM HLR 5, the GSM MSC 4 and theGSM HLR 5 can be any type of switching device of a second technologythat is capable of routing a call, such as TDMA, GSM, CDMA, UMTS, GPRS,PBX, and any other known or later developed technology capable ofrouting a call.

A local number portability database (LNP DB) 6 communicates andexchanges information with the PSTN 1, the TDMA MSC 2 and the GSM MSC 4via paths P7, P8 and P9 respectively. The LNP DB 6 is the facilitywhereby subscribers may retain their telephone number when moving toanother location or to another carrier or operator. For purposes of thisinvention, the LNP DB 6 also contains the designation of the switchbeing a TDMA or a GSM switch. Each phone number has a network address,and the LNP DB 6 keeps track of these addresses. When a customer placesa call, the LNP DB 6 is queried. The LNP DB 6 records the caller'snetwork address, locates the dialed number's network address, andnotifies all telecommunications companies involved where to route thecall via a local routing number (LRN) and which companies to credit forthe call. The LRN is a 10-digit telephone number. The LNP DB 6 systemalso records the appropriate information whenever a customer changeslocal carriers, such as whether the phone number has been ported (forexample, wireless to wire-line porting, and vica-versa). The LNP DB 6updates account information and ensures that no interruption of serviceoccurs.

The inter-machine trunk (IMT) 11 is provided between the TDMA MSC 2 andthe GSM MSC 4. The IMT 11 is a circuit 6 built between the TDMA MSC 2 inthe TDMA network and the GSM MSC 4 in the GSM network. In the IMT 11,data translation is built into the MSC's to route the call from the TDMAMSC 2 to the GSM MSC 4.

According to this exemplary embodiment, the IMT 11 translates ANSI 41which is the signaling language associated with the TDMA network, andalso translates GSM MAPP which is the signaling language associated withthe GSM network. The IMT 11 allows translation back and forth betweenthe TDMA MSC 2 and the GSM MSC 4 so that the WLNP migration system 100can support both technologies. Translation may occur according tovarious now known or later developed methods.

FIG. 1 shows one exemplary embodiment in which a subscriber desires tomigrate from TDMA to GSM while keeping the same MDN in accordance withsystems and methods of this invention.

According to this embodiment, it is understood that a TDMA subscriberhas migrated his mobile directory number (MDN) from a TDMA phone networkto a GSM phone network. An entry is added into the LNP DB 6 that appliesthe LRN of the GSM MSC 4 to the MDN.

When an incoming call, for example, from originating phone 7 is receivedfor the designation phone 10, either the PSTN 1 or the TDMA MSC 2queries the LNP DB 6. If the call is first routed to the PSTN 1, thePSTN 1 may query the LNP DB 6 for the applicable LRN. If the LRN for GSMis designated by the return LRN from the LNP DB 6, then, the call willLRN route directly to the home GSM MSC 4.

If the PSTN 1 simply routes the call to the TDMA MSC 2 marked unqueried,then the TDMA MSC 2 will query the LNP DB 6 and LRN route the call tothe home GSM MSC 4.

Although the call is shown as being originally received at the TDMA MSC2, the originating phone 7 call may be originally received from variousdevices, including the PSTN 1, the GSM MSC 4, or any other switchingdevice now known or later developed that is capable of routing a call.

FIG. 2 shows an exemplary method for migrating a call flow from anoriginator phone to a destination phone subscriber between a firsttechnology and a second technology via a wireless local numberportability (WLNP) migration system.

In step S100, a control routine begins. The control routine proceeds tostep S200.

In step S200, a TDMA subscriber has migrated his mobile directory number(MDN) from a TDMA phone network to a GSM phone network. The controlroutine proceeds to step S300.

In step S300, a profile in a local number portability database (LNP DB)is created as a result of the migration. In particular, an entry isadded into the LNP DB that applies a local routing number (LRN) of aglobal system for mobile communications mobile switching center (GSMMSC) to the mobile directory number (MDN). The control routine proceedsto step S400.

In step S400, the routine determines whether an incoming call, from anoriginator phone intended for a destination phone, is received by apublic switched telephone network (PSTN) or a time division multipleaccess mobile switching center (TDMA MSC). If the incoming call isreceived by the PSTN, the control routine proceeds to step S500,otherwise the routine continues to step S700.

In step S500, the routine determines if the PSTN has queried the LNP DBfor an LRN. If the PSTN has queried the LNP DB for an LRN, the routinecontinues to step S600, otherwise the routine continues to step S700.

In step S600, the LRN is received by the PSTN and the PSTN routes thecall via the LRN to the GSM MSC.

In step S700, either the PSTN has not queried the LNP DB (step S500), orthe incoming call from the originator or phone (step S400) is receivedby the TDMA MSC. The call is then routed to the TDMA MSC and marked asunqueried. The routine proceeds to step S800.

In step S800, the TDMA MSC queries the LNP DB. The routine then proceedsto step S600.

In step S600, the LRN is received by the TDMA MSC and the TDMA MSCroutes the call via the LRN on an inter-machine trunk (IMT) to the GSMMSC. The call then proceeds to step S900.

In step S900, the call is terminated, and thus connected between theoriginal phone caller and the destination phone caller for voicecommunication.

The routine then proceeds to step S1000, where the routine ends.

Various other exemplary scenarios are possible for managing a call flowbetween the GSM and TDMA technologies in accordance with systems andmethods of this invention. By way of example, various exemplaryscenarios are described below and shown in the attached figures.

Exemplary Scenario 1

Both TDMA and GSM calls are all handled by the TDMA MSC. According tothis scenario, various markets are unable to obtain new number rangesand landline facilities. For purposes of these examples, the followingassumptions are made.

1) The GSM system is operating commercially. The GSM system containsboth an MSC and an HLR.

2) A designated LRN is provided from a selected existing TDMA 10,000(10K) number block to support intra-service pooling. The LRN can be usedto identify whether the call is intended for GSM or TDMA.

3) Inbound calls intended for TDMA and GSM from the PSTN are directed tothe TDMA switch.

4) Inter-machine trunk (IMT) connectivity is provided between the TDMAMSC and the GSM MSC supports signaling system 7 (SS7) functionality.

5) Wireless local number portability (WLNP) capabilities are supportedby both the TDMA MSC and the GSM MSC. Connectivity to a local numberportability database (LNP DB) of the subscriber's carrier has beenestablished or is supported at least by local number portabilitydatabase phase 1 (LNP PH1).

6) Both the TDMA MSC and the GSM MSC can support the routing of callsbetween the respective MSC's using translations of the local routingnumber (LRN) and/or the temporary local directory numbers (TLDN's).

7) All GSM calls to a landline will be inter-machine trunked (IMT) tothe TDMA MSC from the GSM MSC.

8) All the MDN's are type 2 numbers. That is, the carrier owns the whole10K block of numbers, and the circuits provided are SS7 signaling basecapable.

These assumptions are not intended to limit the exemplary scenarios, butare merely provided as exemplary assumptions. Other similar assumptionscan also be provided which are capable of similar operation inaccordance with systems and methods of this invention.

Mobile to Mobile All Carrier Codes are Opened for Porting/Pooling

In accordance with scenario 1, a mobile to mobile call is made. Themobile phones can be a TDMA or a GSM mobile phone. The followingexemplary scenarios may arise:

A. TDMA Mobile to TDMA Mobile

A TDMA mobile to TDMA mobile call is made according to this scenario. Assuch, an inter-machine trunk (IMT) is not required.

B. TDMA Mobile to GSM Mobile (New Customer)

As shown in FIG. 3, a call is placed from a TDMA mobile to a GSM mobile.The GSM mobile belongs to a new customer. The call to the GSM mobile isoriginated and received by the TDMA MSC. The TDMA MSC queries the TDMAHLR. If the TDMA HLR return results is negative, for example, either“MIN/HLR Mismatch” or “Unassigned DN”, then the TDMA MSC launches an LNPDB query. If the LRN for a GSM subscriber is returned, the TDMA MSCroutes the call to the GSM MSC via an IMT based on the LRN (identifiedas the GSM subscriber).

C. TDMA Mobile to GSM Mobile (Ported from TDMA)

A call is placed from a TDMA mobile to a GSM mobile according to thisscenario. However, in this scenario, the GSM mobile number was portedfrom a TDMA mobile number. That is, the GSM mobile initially had a TDMAmobile phone with TDMA technology and the subscriber has recentlypurchased a GSM mobile that operates on GSM technology. This method inwhich this call flow proceeds is similar to the call flow describedabove under section 1B, entitled “TDMA Mobile to GSM Mobile (NewCustomer)”.

D. GSM Mobile to GSM Mobile (New Customer)

A GSM mobile to a GSM mobile call is made according to this scenario.The GSM mobile belongs to a new customer. According to this scenario,the IMT is not required. That is, the call first queries the GSM HLR. Ifthe GSM HLR returns a negative result, for example, either “MIN/HLRMismatch” or “Unassigned DN”, then the GSM MSC launches an LNP DB query,otherwise the mobile is terminated if the subscriber record is found inthe GSM HLR and the call is connected.

E. GSM Mobile to GSM Mobile (Ported from TDMA)

A GSM mobile to a GSM mobile call is made. The GSM mobile being calledwas ported from a TDMA mobile. According to this scenario, the call doesnot require the use of an IMT. This method in which this call flowproceeds is similar to the call flow described above under scenario 1A,entitled “TDMA Mobile to TDMA Mobile.”

F. GSM Mobile to TDMA Mobile

A GSM mobile to a TDMA mobile call is made.

-   -   a) As shown in FIG. 4, the call is originated to a TDMA phone.        The call queries the GSM HLR first. If the return result from        the GSM HLR is negative, for example, either “MIN/HLR Mismatch”        or “Unassigned DN”, then the GSM MSC launches an LNP DB query.        If the LRN (identified as a TDMA subscriber) is returned from        the LNP DB, the GSM MSC will route the call via the IMT based on        the LRN (identified as a TDMA subscriber).    -   b) Alternatively, FIG. 5 shows that the call originating from        the GSM system can be routed to the TDMA MSC through an IMT, and        the TDMA MSC will attempt regular mobile termination. A query is        not made to the GSM HLR because the GSM MSC can distinctively        determine where to route the call, that is, back to the TDMA        MSC.

Land to Mobile All Carrier Codes Opened for Porting/Pooling and LECPerforms Query

G. Land to TDMA Mobile

This is the typical call scenario. A call is made from a land line phoneto a TDMA mobile. An IMT is not required. The call is queried by a LEC.The LEC receives an LRN and routes the call based on the LRN. If the LRNis intended for the TDMA MSC, the LEC will route the call to the TDMAMSC. The TDMA MSC analyzes the LRN to determine if the LRN is identifiedas its own (i.e., the LRN is designated for the TDMA MSC). The TDMA MSCthen launches a query to the HLR to attempt mobile termination; and/orto determine if the LRN is an LRN designated for the GSM MSC. Then, thecall is routed to the GSM MSC.

H. Land to GSM Mobile (New Customer)

FIG. 6 shows a call being made from a land line phone to a GSM mobile.The GSM mobile is a new customer. The call is queried by the localexchange carrier (LEC). The LEC receives the local routing number (LRN)and routes the call on the LRN (call is still directed to the TDMAswitch, but is for a GSM subscriber). The TDMA MSC performs analysis ofthe LRN that is intended for the GSM subscriber. The TDMA MSC routes thecall to the GSM MSC via the IMT. The GSM MSC performs analysis of theLRN to determine if the LRN is an LRN designated for the GSM MSC andattempts mobile termination.

I. Land to GSM Mobile (Ported from TDMA)

A call is made from a land line phone to a GSM mobile. According to thisexemplary scenario, the GSM subscriber was ported from TDMA. Similar to“Land to GSM Mobile (New Customer)” as described under 1H.

Land to Mobile All Carrier Codes Opened for Porting/Pooling and LEC doesnot Perform Query

J. Land to TDMA Mobile

A call is made from a land line phone to a TDMA mobile. An IMT is notrequired. The call comes into the TDMA MSC without a forward callindicator (FCI) bit set. The FCI bit set is an indicator in SS7signaling that tells the switch that a call has already been queried.The call is routed to query the TDMA HLR first. If the return resultfrom the TDMA HLR is either “MIN/HLR Mismatch” or “Unassigned DN”, thenthe TDMA MSC launches an LNP DB query, otherwise, the mobile isterminated if the subscriber's record is found in the TDMA HLR.

K. Land to GSM Mobile (New Customer)

FIG. 7 shows a call being made from a land line phone to a GSM mobile.The call comes into the TDMA MSC without an FCI bit set. The call isrouted to query the TDMA HLR first. If the return results from the TDMAHLR is negative, such as either “MIN/HLR Mismatch” or “Unassigned DN”,then the TDMA MSC launches an LNP DB query. The TDMA MSC receives theLRN. If the LRN is identified as a GSM subscriber base, then the TDMAroutes the call to GSM MSC via IMT. The GSM MSC receives the call andperforms analysis of the LRN to determine if the LRN is designated as aTDMA LRN or a GSM LRN and attempts mobile termination.

L. Land to GSM Mobile (Ported from TDMA)

A call is made from a land line phone to a GSM mobile. According to thisexemplary scenario, the GSM subscriber was ported from TDMA. The processfor routing the call is similar to the “Land to GSM Mobile (NewCustomer)” as described above under scenario 1K.

Roaming

According to exemplary systems and methods of this invention, thefollowing exemplary scenarios take place when the mobile phone isroaming.

M. TDMA to a Roaming GSM Mobile (New Customer)

FIG. 8 shows a call being made from a TDMA mobile to a roaming GSMmobile. The GSM mobile is a new customer. The call flow process issimilar to the call flow scenario for the “TDMA to GSM Mobile (Newcustomer)” as described above under 1B. The GSM MSC routes the temporarylocal directory number TLDN received on the GSM HLR query to the TDMAMSC.

N. TDMA to a Roaming GSM Mobile (Ported from TDMA)

A call is made from a TDMA mobile to a roaming GSM mobile. The GSMmobile subscriber has been ported from TDMA. The call flow for thisexemplary scenario is similar to call flow scenario for the “TDMA to GSMMobile (New customer)” as described above under 1B. The GSM MSC routesthe TLDN received on the GSM HLR query to the TDMA MSC.

O. GSM to a Roaming GSM Mobile (New Customer)

A call is made from a GSM mobile to a roaming GSM mobile. The GSM mobileis a new customer. The call flow for this exemplary scenario is similarto call flow scenario for the “GSM to GSM Mobile (New customer)” asdescribed above under 1D. The GSM MSC routes the TLDN received on theGSM HLR query to the TDMA MSC.

P. GSM to a Roaming GSM Mobile (Ported from TDMA)

A call is made from a GSM mobile to a roaming GSM mobile. The GSM mobilesubscriber has been ported from TDMA. The call flow for this exemplaryscenario is similar to call flow scenario for the “GSM to GSM Mobile(New customer)” as described above under 1E. The GSM MSC routes the TLDNreceived on the GSM HLR query to the MSC.

Exemplary Scenario 2

According to systems and methods of this invention, the GSM MSC's havenew Nxx codes and new PSTN circuits. For purposes of these examples, thefollowing assumptions are made.

1) The GSM system is operating commercially. The GSM system containsboth a GSM MSC and a GSM HLR.

2) Both the TDMA and the GSM MSC will have their own designated LRN(s).

3) The GSM MSC has new NPA-Nxx(s) number block and the PSTN routes callsto the NPA-Nxx(s).

4) The IMT connectivity between the TDMA and the GSM MSC supportssignaling system 7 (SS7).

5) The GSM and the TDMA technologies have their own designated HLR's.

6) WLNP capabilities is supported by both the TDMA and the GSM MSC.Connectivity to the carrier's LNP DB have been established or support atleast the LNP PH1.

7) Both the GSM MSC and the TDMA MSC can support the routing of callsbetween the MSC's using translations of the LRN and/or the TLDN's.

8) All the MDN's are type 2 numbers. That is, the carrier owns the whole10K block of numbers, and the circuits provided are SS7 signaling basecapable.

These assumptions are not intended to limit the exemplary scenarios, butare merely provided as exemplary assumptions. Other similar assumptionscan also be provided which are capable of similar operation inaccordance with systems and methods of this invention.

Mobile to Mobile All Carrier Codes Opened for Porting/Pooling

A. TDMA Mobile to TDMA Mobile

A call is made from a TDMA mobile to a TDMA mobile. An IMT not required.

B. TDMA Mobile to GSM Mobile (New Customer)

FIG. 9 shows a call being made from a TDMA mobile to a GSM mobile. TheGSM mobile subscriber is a new customer. The call is sent from the TDMAMSC to query the LNP DB since the Nxx for the GSM MSC can be consideredas a new PSTN Nxx range; if the LRN is returned, TDMA MSC can route thecalls to the PSTN or IMT based on the LRN. If the LNP DB query is notdone, the call can be routed directly to the GSM MSC via IMT or PSTNbased on the Nxx(−x) number block.

C. TDMA Mobile to GSM Mobile (Ported from TDMA)

FIG. 10 shows a call being made from a TDMA mobile to a GSM mobile. TheGSM mobile subscriber has been ported from TDMA. The call would bedirected to query the TDMA HLR first. Assuming the porting processtransferred the subscription records from the TDMA HLR to the GSM HLRsuccessfully, the return results from the TDMA HLR would be “unassignedMDN”. This triggers the TDMA MSC to launch an LNP query on the callednumber. The LNP DB return the query with the GSM LRN. The TDMA MSC canroute the call to the GSM switch either through the IMT or to the PSTN.

D. GSM Mobile to GSM Mobile (New Customer)

A call is made from a GSM mobile to a GSM mobile. The GSM mobile is anew subscriber. Use of an IMT is not required.

E. GSM Mobile to GSM Mobile (Ported from TDMA)

A call is made from a GSM mobile to a GSM mobile. The terminating GSMmobile subscriber has been ported from TDMA. The call can be directedtowards the LNP DB or to the TDMA MSC via IMT on the Nxx(−x).

-   -   (a) FIG. 11 shows that if the call is directed to the LNP DB,        then the LNP DB would return the GSM MSC LRN. GSM MSC translates        the LRN and identifies it as its own. GSM MSC attempt mobile        termination. Note that the call case does not require IMT.    -   (b) FIG. 12 illustrates that if the call is directed to the TDMA        via IMT (applies to cases where majority of customer within        Nxx(−x) range are still TDMA customers), the TDMA MSC will        launch a query the TDMA HLR. The HLR will reply with either        “MIN/HLR Mismatch” or “Unassigned DN”, this triggers the TDMA        MSC to launch an LNP DB query. The return result from the LNP        query will be the GSM LRN. The TDMA will route the call on the        LRN. The call can either go back to the GSM via IMT or PSTN.        Note this call flows requires two IMT circuit if the TDMA uses        IMT to route the GSM LRN.

F. GSM Mobile to TDMA Mobile

FIG. 13 illustrates a call being made from a GSM mobile to a TDMAmobile. The call ideally would be sent to query the LNP DB since theTDMA Nxx can be considered as the PSTN call; if the LRN is returned, andassuming the LRN is not the subscribers carrier, the GSM MSC can thendirect the call to the PSTN. If the LNP DB query is not done, the callcan be routed to the TDMA MSC via IMT or PSTN based on the Nxx(−x)number block.

Land to Mobile All Carrier Codes Opened for Porting/Pooling and LECPerforms Query

G. Land to TDMA Mobile

A call is made from a land line phone to a TDMA mobile. Use of an IMT isnot required.

H. Land to GSM Mobile (New Customer)

A call is made from a land line phone to a GSM mobile. The GSM mobilecustomer is a new customer. Use of an IMT is not required.

I. Land to GSM Mobile (Ported from TDMA)

A call is made from a land line phone to a GSM mobile. The GSM mobilesubscriber has been ported from TDMA. Use of an IMT is not required. Thelocal LEC performs the LNP query and receives the LRN. The LEC routescall on the LRN received to the GSM MSC.

Land to Mobile All Carrier Codes Opened for Porting/Pooling & LEC doesnot Perform Query

J. Land to TDMA Mobile

A call is made from a land line phone to a TDMA mobile. Use of an IMT isnot required.

K. Land to GSM Mobile (New Customer)

A call is made from a land line phone to a GSM mobile. The GSM mobilesubscriber is a new customer. Use of an IMT is not required.

L. Land to GSM Mobile (Ported from TDMA)

A call is made from a land line phone to a GSM mobile. The GSM mobilesubscriber has been ported from TDMA. Use of an IMT is not required.This exemplary scenario is similar to the “TDMA Mobile to GSM Mobile(Ported from TDMA)” illustrated above under 1C, except that callorigination comes from PSTN.

Roaming

M. TDMA to a Roaming GSM Mobile (New Customer)

A call is made from a TDMA mobile to a roaming GSM mobile. The GSMmobile subscriber is a new customer. This exemplary scenario is similarto the “TDMA Mobile to GSM Mobile (New customer)” call flow illustratedabove under 1B. This call flow can use IMT to route calls between theswitches. The TLDN received from the serving switch can be routed to thePSTN.

N. TDMA to a Roaming GSM Mobile (Ported from TDMA)

A call is made from a TDMA mobile to a roaming GSM mobile. The GSMmobile subscriber has been ported from TDMA. This exemplary scenario issimilar to the “TDMA Mobile to GSM Mobile (ported from TDMA)” call flowillustrated above under 1C. This call flow can use an IMT to route callsbetween the switches. The TLDN received from the serving switch of theroaming subscriber can be routed to the PSTN for call completion.

O. GSM to a Roaming GSM Mobile (New Customer)

A call is made from a GSM mobile to a roaming GSM mobile. The receivingGSM mobile subscriber is a new customer. Use of an IMT is not requiredif the GSM MSC is set to query the HLR first.

P. GSM to a Roaming GSM Mobile (Ported from TDMA)

A call is made from a GSM mobile to a roaming GSM mobile. Theterminating GSM mobile subscriber has been ported from TDMA. Use of anIMT is not required if the GSM MSC set to query the HLR first.

Exemplary Scenario 3

According to systems and methods of this invention, the handling of GAITmobile locked to a GSM system and registered in a TDMA HLR are describedbelow (or TDMA GAIT in foreign GSM mode). For purposes of theseexamples, the following assumptions are made.

1) GSM system is operating commercially. The GSM system contains both anMSC and an HLR.

2) Both TDMA and GSM MSC will have their own designated LRN(s).

3) The GSM MSC has new NPA-Nxx number blocks and the PSTN may routecalls to the NPA-Nxx.

4) IMT connectivity between TDMA and GSM MSC supports signaling system 7(SS7).

5) GSM and TDMA technologies have own designated HLR.

6) WLNP capabilities supported by both TDMA and GSM MSC. Connectivity tothe subscriber's carrier LNP DB have been established or supporting atleast LNP PH1.

7) Both the TDMA MSC and the GSM MSC can support the routing of callsbetween MSC's using translations of the LRN and/or TLDN's.

8) All the MDN's are type 2 numbers. That is, the carrier owns the whole10K block of numbers, and the circuits provided are SS7 signaling basecapable.

These assumptions are not intended to limit the exemplary scenarios, butare merely provided as exemplary assumptions. Other similar assumptionscan also be provided which are capable of similar operation inaccordance with systems and methods of this invention.

Mobile to Mobile All Carrier Codes Opened for Porting/Pooling

According to systems and methods of this invention, GSM GAIT should bedefined as a TDMA GAIT mobile in foreign GSM mode. This definitionshould also apply throughout this section with reference to all GAITdescriptions.

A. TDMA Mobile to GSM GAIT Mobile (Homed in TDMA HLR)

FIG. 14 illustrates a call being made from a TDMA mobile to a GSM GAITmobile. The GSM GAIT is homed in the TDMA HLR. That is, the firsttechnology that the GSM GAIT mobile searched for is TDMA. The GSM GAITmobile subscriber is homed in the TDMA HLR. The call within the TDMA MSCqueries the TDMA HLR first. If the TDMA HLR return result is either“MIN/HLR Mismatch” or “Unassigned DN”, then the TDMA MSC launches an LNPDB query, otherwise the mobile is terminated if the subscriber record isfound in the HLR. In the case of a GSM GAIT mobile and assuming thesubscriber record is present, the return results from the TDMA HLR tothe TDMA MSC would be the GSM TLDN number. The GSM TLDN number receivedby the TDMA MSC can be routed to the IMT or PSTN circuits to the GSM MSCfor mobile termination.

B. GSM Mobile to GSM GAIT Mobile (Homed in TDMA HLR)

FIG. 15 illustrates a call being made from a GSM mobile to a GSM GAITmobile. The GSM GAIT mobile is homed in the TDMA HLR. The call withinthe GSM system is routed to the TDMA system via IMT. The TDMA MSCqueries the HLR first, if the HLR return result is either “MIN/HLRMismatch” or “Unassigned DN”, then the MSC launches an LNP DB queryotherwise the mobile is terminated if the subscriber record is found inthe HLR. In the case of a GSM GAIT mobile and assuming the subscriberrecord is present, the return results from the TDMA HLR to the TDMA MSCwould be the GSM TLDN number. The GSM TLDN number received by the TDMAMSC can be routed to the IMT to the GSM MSC for mobile termination. Notethat there are two circuits being used for this call scenario.

Land to Mobile All Carrier Codes Opened for Porting/Pooling and LECPerforms Query

C. Land to GSM GAIT Mobile (Homed in TDMA HLR)

FIG. 16 illustrates a call being made from a land line phone to a GSMGAIT mobile. The GSM mobile is homed in the TDMA HLR. The call isqueried by the LEC. The LEC receives “null” (number not ported) anddefault routes to the TDMA MSC. The TDMA MSC launches a query to theTDMA HLR to attempt mobile termination. The return results from the TDMAHLR to the TDMA MSC would be the GSM TLDN number. The GSM TLDN numberreceived by the TDMA MSC can be routed to the IMT to the GSM MSC formobile termination.

Land to Mobile All Carrier Codes Opened for Porting/Pooling and LEC doesnot Perform Query

D. Land to GSM GAIT Mobile (Homed in TDMA HLR)

A call is made from a land line phone to a GSM GAIT mobile. The GSMmobile is homed in the TDMA HLR. This scenario is similar to the “TDMAMobile to GSM GAIT Mobile (homed in TDMA HLR)” described above at 3A,except that the call origination comes to the TDMA MSC via the PSTN.

Exemplary Scenario 4

According to systems and methods of this invention, various alternativescan be implemented for the IMT, for example, for tandem type calls. Thefollowing call flow process can be performed for tandem type calls notspecific to WLNP, Pooling, and Service Migration. For purposes of theseexamples, the following assumptions are made.

1) GSM system is operating commercially. The GSM system contains both anMSC and an HLR.

2) Both TDMA and GSM MSC will have their own designated LRN(s).

3) The GSM MSC has new NPA-Nxx number blocks and the PSTN may routecalls to the NPA-Nxx.

4) IMT connectivity between TDMA and GSM MSC supports signaling system 7(SS7).

5) GSM and TDMA technologies have own designated HLR.

6) WLNP capabilities supported by both TDMA and GSM MSC. Connectivity tothe LNP DB of the subscriber's carrier have been established orsupporting at least LNP PH1.

7) Both MSC's can support the routing of calls between MSC's usingtranslations of the LRN and/or TLDN's.

8) All the MDN's are type 2 numbers. That is, the carrier owns the whole10K block of numbers, and the circuits provided are SS7 signaling basecapable.

These assumptions are not intended to limit the exemplary scenarios, butare merely provided as exemplary assumptions. Other similar assumptionscan also be provided which are capable of similar operation inaccordance with systems and methods of this invention.

Mobile to Land Multi-MSC Market with Trunking to Multiple PSTN TandemSwitches

A. Mobile to Land Number not Served by Serving MSC

FIG. 17 illustrates a call being made from a mobile to a land line notserved by the serving MSC. A mobile served by MSC A calls a landlinenumber that is in an End Office interconnected to MSC B (possibly via aLEC Access Tandem). The call is routed via IMT to MSC B and MSC Btandems the call to the correct PSTN switch for completion.

Mobile to Mobile Multi-MSC Market with Trunking to Multiple TDMASwitches

B. Mobile to Mobile Served by MSC A Roaming in MSC B

FIG. 18 illustrates a call being made from a mobile served by an MSC Ato a mobile number that has a VLR in an MSC B, or an IHLR in the MSC B.In the case of a mobile roaming in the MSC B (VLR), the MSC A queriesthe HLR, a TLDN for the MSC B would be returned and the call routes viathe IMT to the MSC B.

FIG. 19 illustrates a mobile with an IHLR in the MSC B. The MSC A wouldroute the call to the MSC B via the IMT. The MSC B would determine themobile's location and complete the call.

It is yet another aspect according to the method described above thatthe first technology can be chosen from at least one of TDMA, GSM, CDMA,UMTS, GPRS and PBX.

It is also another aspect according to the method described above thatthe second technology is different from the first technology and can bechosen from at least one of TDMA, GSM, CDMA, UMTS, GPRS and PBX.

While this invention has been described in conjunction with theexemplary embodiments outlined above, it is evident that manyalternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to thoseskilled in the art. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments of theinvention, as set forth above, are intended to be illustrative, notlimiting. Various changes may be made without departing from the spiritand scope of the invention.

1. A Wireless number portability (WLNP) system for migrating a call flowfor a mobile directory number (MDN) from a first phone to a second phonewhich has been intra-service ported, comprising: a first switch of afirst technology; a second switch of a second technology; and a localnumber portability database (LNP) that stores local routing numbers(LRN) associated with MDN, wherein the WLNP system determines whether acall, from the first phone to the second phone, is received by a publicswitched telephone network (PSTN) or the first switch, and wherein: ifthe call is received by the PSTN with the LRN, the call is routed basedon the LRN to the second switch; and if the call is received by thefirst switch without the LRN, the first switch queries the LNP for theLRN and the call is routed intra-carrier to the second switch via aninter-machine trunk (IMT), wherein the IMT includes data translationwhich allows for the translation of data back and forth between thefirst switch of the first technology and the second switch of the secondtechnology.
 2. The WLNP system recited in claim 1, wherein if the callis received by the PSTN with the LRN, the PSTN has queried the LNP forthe LRN associated with the MDN of the call.
 3. The WLNP system recitedin claim 1, wherein if the call is received by the PSTN with the LRN,the call is routed directly from the PSTN to the second switch based onthe LRN.
 4. The WLNP system recited in claim 1, wherein if the call isreceived by the first switch without the LRN, the first switch queriesthe LNP and the call is routed intra-carrier from the first switch tothe second switch based on the LRN queried from the LNP.
 5. A method formigrating a call from a first phone to a second phone where a mobiledirectory number (MDN) has been intra-service ported from a first switchof a first technology to a second switch of a second technology,comprising: creating a profile in a local number portability database(LNP) based on the intra-service ported MDN; and determining whether thecall is received by a public switched telephone network (PSTN) or thefirst switch, wherein: if the call is received by the PSTN with the LRN,routing the call based on the LRN to the second switch; and if the callis received by the first switch without the LRN, querying LNP for theLRN by the first switch, and routing the call intra-carrier to thesecond switch via an inter-machine trunk (IMT), wherein the IMT includesdata translation which allows for the translation of data back and forthbetween the first switch of the first technology and the second switchof the second technology.
 6. The method recited in claim 5, wherein inthe LNP a profile is created based on the intra-service ported MDN, andin which an entry is added that applies the local routing number LRN forthe second switch.
 7. The method recited in claim 5, wherein if the callis received by the PSTN with the LRN, the PSTN has queried the LNP forthe LRN associated with the MDN of the call, and the call is routeddirectly from the PSTN to the second switch based on the LRN.
 8. Awireless number portability (WLNP) system comprising: a public switchedtelephone network connection (PSTN); a first switch of a firsttechnology; a second switch of a second technology, wherein the WLNPsystem migrates a call flow from a first phone to a second phone inwhich a mobile directory number (MDN) has been intra-service ported fromthe first switch to the second switch; and a local number portabilitydatabase (LNP) that stores local routing numbers (LRN) associated withthe MDN that has been intra-service ported; wherein the WLNP systemdetermines whether a call, from the first phone, is received by the PSTNor the first switch; and wherein: if the call is received by the PSTNwith the LRN queried from the LNP, the PSTN routes the call based on theLRN to the second switch; and if the call is received without the LRNfrom the LNP, the first switch queries the LNP to obtain the LRN, andthen routes the call on an inter-machine trunk (IMT) to the secondswitch, wherein the IMT includes data translation which allows for thetranslation of data back and forth between the first switch of the firsttechnology and the second switch of the second technology.
 9. Thewireless number portability (WLNP) system of claim 8, wherein the firstswitch of a first technology communicates with a first home locationregister (HLR) of the first technology.
 10. The wireless numberportability (WLNP) system of claim 8, wherein the second switch of asecond technology communicates with a second home location register(HLR) of the second technology.
 11. The wireless number portability(WLNP) system of claim 8, wherein the first technology and the secondtechnology can be chosen from at least one of the followingtechnologies: TDMA; GSM; CDMA; UMTS; GPRS and PBX.